Sit down at a comfortable yet quiet area and begin writing anything you want. Your song can pertain to anything, and the more honest it is the better. Many people find success in writing about troubles they go through, thus, the honest aspect. Never force yourself to write music either. Allow the lyrics to come to you naturally and never give up.
Introduce people to your music, primarily people who are critical of music. Allow them to read what you have written and tell them to give you constructive criticism. Not only will this allow them to see your talent, it will also allow you to become a better songwriter by listening to people's criticisms. Once you have heard people's praises and concerns, edit your music and continue to improve.
Perform your own music live if you are a musician. This is a very easy way to get your songs noticed, especially if you play a gig now and again.
Register your songs at the copyright office and shop your songs around to local bands. Many bands would love to have an extra song to play now and again, and some may even pay you a small amount for allowing them to cover it. When agreeing to let them cover it, you will want to make a stipulation where the band will tell the audience you wrote the song. For instance, before they play the song, the lead singer may say something like, "This next song was written by a local talented songwriter named Jim Jeffries. I hope you enjoy it." It may be awkward to ask, but if the band really likes the song they will work it in.
Design a website that showcases your songs. Many website hosts are inexpensive and developing a website is very easy to do. Create different sections on your website, such as a bio page and samples of your work. If a local band covered your written songs, you may also put the song on your website so others can hear what your written songs sound like when performed by a band. However, if you go this route make sure you have prior approval of the band.
Post an ad on Internet bulletin board websites such as CraigsList. Let the reader know that you are a songwriter and are trying to make a living writing music. If you get an inquiry, you can redirect the individual to your website where they can see and maybe hear your written music. If several musicians are interested in your writings and they are willing to pay you for your music, agree to it, however let them know that they must give you credit (i.e., if they release an album with your song on it, you must be credited as the writer on the song).
Contact several record labels when you have successfully sold music to individuals. Tell them what all you have accomplished and let them know you are interested in selling them written music and redirect them to your website if they want further information. If they like what they see and hear, they may ask you to write something for them. Write and send the music to them and wait to hear back from them. There is no guarantee, but if they are impressed by what you give them, they may want to do business again.